Message from the Executive Secretariat for Integral Development (SEDI)

Increasingly, development challenges faced by member states -- whether they be economic, social or environmental -- present significant governance and security implications and often have consequences that extend beyond national boundaries. The OAS development agenda is shaped by, and responsive to, these realities.

While the development agenda on the surface may seem broad in scope, it has a singular focus – to advance inclusive and sustainable development. This is based on a clear understanding that efforts to secure peace, democracy with full respect for human rights and the rule of law are more likely to be sustainable when there is a sound foundation for durable development.

The challenge for the Organization has been how to translate that singular focus into programmatic offerings that effectively respond to a member state demand-driven approach, make efficient use of limited resources and have the capacity to deliver results. Today, the OAS’s development arm is leaner and more focused. SEDI has fewer departments and thematic areas, and internal capacity has been consolidated to support stronger programming. There is also a strong drive to create more program linkages internally, capitalize on collaboration with partners where possible, and develop areas of technical cooperation that contribute to improved effectiveness and efficiency in a resource-constrained yet need-rich environment.

The recently signed agreement between the OAS, the government of Mexico, the National Science and Technology Council (CONACYT) and the Mexican Agency for International Development Cooperation (AMEXCID) represents an important example of the realigned modalities of work. Through this strategic partnership, the OAS will have the capacity to expand educational opportunities in science and engineering while simultaneously supporting the promotion of innovation and competitiveness, addressing the skills gap in technology related areas, and strengthening regional development cooperation.

That emphasis on cooperation extends to our work in an area of recognized strength for the OAS, namely training and capacity building. This is highlighted in the article on the continuation of a successful 16-year partnership between the OAS and the World Trade Organization to build institutional capacity in OAS member states, the success of which is reflected in the number of alumni who have gone on to serve as ministers, vice ministers, and chief trade negotiators for their countries or who now participate in the course as trainers.

But our efforts to support development through technical programming would be incomplete if they were not informed by policy dialogue which continues to be at the center of OAS-SEDI’s work, guiding the agenda and supporting national and regional policy priorities for sustained economic, social and human development. The specialized thematic networks that provide a mechanism for sharing experiences and promoting horizontal cooperation provide unique platforms for the OAS to bring together different stakeholders throughout the region in a true partnership for 21st century development.

Sherry Tross
Executive Secretary, OAS/SEDI

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